Investment in mind, CM Devendra Fadnavis cracks the whip on unions

Hours before his departure to China to woo more investment for Maharashtra, chief minister Devendra Fadnavis directed the state police to take stern action on local goons and union leaders who harass industrialists 'unnecessarily'. He also ordered the police to ensure safety of industrial areas across the state by overhauling the law and order measures.

In fact, the chief minister asked the home department to conduct a safety audit on all MIDCs in the state and establish a police station at every MIDC so as to restore the confidence of India Inc. in Maharashtra.

The development came after his meeting with ministers and top officials of the industries, home and labour departments on Wednesday morning. Industry sources claimed that a few industries have recently shifted their plants to neighbouring states due to constant harassment and extortion by local goons supported by political parties. The problems initially faced by industries in Thane and Pune said have reached the Vidarbha region. Opposition by locals over the pending issue of land acquisition was also faced by industries, said an official.

"We are seeking to attract more investment in the state for which all facilities are being extended to them. To make sure that this initiative succeeds, we will need to ensure good law and order in the industrial areas," Fadnavis has told Director General of Police Sanjeev Dayal, asking him to ensure safety of industrialists and mills.

The chief minister also directed the three departments — industry, home and labour — to constitute a committee to address these issues and facilitate the works in industries.